Mazda uses cookies in order to provide the best possible experience to users of this site. By continuing to use mazda.com you are giving consent to cookies being used.For more information on how we use cookies or for help if you do not accept the above, please visit our Privacy & Cookies page

SKYACTIV-DRIVE is the ideal AT with all the advantages of the various types of transmissions:

fig.1:Advantages of each transmission type

Improvement in Fuel Economy and Achievement of Direct Feel with Full Range Lock-Up

The torque converter transfers engine power to the transmission through fluid, making a smooth start-up and gearshifts possible. The drawback is that fuel economy worsens due to the loss of power transfer through the fluid, and slippage during rapid acceleration, which causes vehicle speed to lag behind engine speed. Therefore, a torque converter with a lock-up clutch was developed, which locks the torque converter's turbine to the impeller to improve fuel economy and direct drive feel. To improve fuel economy and direct drive feel pointed as challenges of Step AT shown in Fig.1, the lock-up range has to be maximized. However, in order to do so, we had to ensure NVH performance and clutch reliability.

fig.2:Full range lock up

With extensive analysis, Mazda overcame NVH by improving the engine, mounts, exhaust, body, and system control as well as the AT itself. Furthermore, improvement in clutch response and precise lock-up control ensures reliability by preventing heat buildup due to slippage.